Bearcats wrap weekend in Newberg

NEWBERG, Ore. — The Willamette University Bearcats concluded two days of competitive swimming at the Bruin Invitational on Saturday, securing a strong fourth-place finish out of five teams.

Individual Standouts Lead the Way

Willamette's overall team standing was buoyed by exceptional individual performances, featuring a first-place finish and multiple top-five results.

• Leah Howell delivered a standout performance, capturing first place in the 100-yard backstroke with a winning time of 1:01.03. She also contributed vital points with a fifth-place finish in the 50-yard freestyle (25.80).

• Jillian Price excelled in the 200-yard freestyle, securing second place overall with a strong time of 1:58.98.

• Tessa Ciatti was a consistent contributor across multiple events. She earned third place in the 200-yard butterfly (2:19.17) and secured fourth place in the demanding 400-yard individual medley with a time of 4:57.96.

Relay Success

The Bearcats demonstrated depth and teamwork in the relay events. The Willamette 'A' team placed fourth in the 400-yard freestyle relay, clocking in at 3:48.38. The scoring quartet consisted of Howell, Price, Kate Shower, and Ciatti. The 'B' team also contributed to the overall score, securing eighth place with a time of 4:01.72.

The team's consistent placement within scoring positions across the two-day competition proved crucial to their final fourth-place standing.